It’s no surprise that we’re BIG on shopping local as we’ve previously posted about other businesses in Melbourne deserving our patronage for their local community engagement efforts. This time we turn our attention to a big brand, located just 10 minutes away from us, where their personal and attentive service really made them the stand out in our local mall chock a block full of big brand names. We’re talking about our local Emporio Armani boutique at Chadstone Shopping Centre, Melbourne. No surprise isn’t it, considering how we’re big on all things Italian, especially fashion and design.

As we’re such big fans of the Emporio Armani Chadstone team, we’ve decided to put together our own X’mas Gift Guide for Gentlemen from their current stock in the boutique, with quality merchandise that we think will bring on the smiles, and that lasts in the style stakes. C’mon, it’s Emporio Armani, most people should be jumping for joy that their heads would hit the ceiling in the lounge room on boxing day. So here goes…Buon Natale!Get Arty: Brush stroke print T shirts and sweaters – Priced from AUD$300.00

We love the artistic touch of these brush stroke print tops, a distinct motif of the Emporio Armani Autumn/Winter 2015 collection, as seen in the catalogue looks above. Available in a variety of styles such as crew neck and buttoned henley T shirts, as well as long sleeved sweaters, in the red shown below and available in blue also.

Tie me up, tie me down: Silk Ties – AUD$199.00

Let’s be honest, if you’re the kind that wants your tie to be flamboyant enough to be the centre of attention of your outfit, we suggest you shop elsewhere. But if you’re after reliable colour choices, prints, materials, proudly “Made in Italy” that work for most outfits and occasions, then you’ll knot (pun fully intended) be disappointed. We’re smitten by this very understated dark navy one, and how its oh so subtle horizontal stripe pattern pops under a certain light or up close. Talk about zooming in on the “finer” details.

Timeless choice: Emporio Armani Watch – AUD$329.00

This is the ultimate trend-proof timepiece, with its clean classic dial and alligator print leather strap, you can’t get any more old school than this. You’ll be wearing this 50 years from now. Seriously, we want this for ourselves. To those gifting us this Christmas, take note! (Wink wink)

Function meets Form: Monogrammed Wallet – AUD$340.00

Blokes just want their accessories functional. Well, the monogrammed design isn’t only iconic of the brand, but the patterned leather surface helps to conceal (or makes them less visible) scratches more than other leather finishes. Its classic size also ensures it fits the back pocket, for those who aren’t the manbag/man clutch generation, and like being hands-free.

Going Luxe: Calfskin Leather Wallet – AUD$340.00

On the other hand, you can’t go wrong with a grained calfskin leather wallet. It’s grown up sophistication with the quiet embossing of the brand; it’s THE wallet that says the man is self assured, no need to scream fashion or trends. The one shown only fits cards and bills, but there’s another option with a snap button coin compartment.

Get Carried Away: Calf Leather Small Messenger Bag – AUD$590.00

Another ultimate essential, this small messenger has just the perfect size to say you’re a well organised man to resist using a tote or briefcase. It’s soft, grained calfskin leather is exactly what you expect of a high quality product: tactile to the touch and will soften with age. Will be particularly photogenic and Instagram friendly during that trip to Italy or just rushing down Flinders Lane in Melbourne CBD to grab a coffee.

Prices above are correct at time of publication, but the last we heard, stocks and sizes are running low for the items. We were lusting after a very 90s throwback waist pouch/bum bag there but it sold out before we got our hands on it! So pop in soon, early shopper gets the better selection. Happy Christmas shopping folks!

Visit Emporio Armani Chadstone, Shop 62, 1341 Dandenong Road, Chadstone, located between the Ground Level entrances of Myer and David Jones within the Luxury section of the mall.